Understanding of Buddhism

Buddhism
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Buddhism
“An Outsider’s Perspective” by Peter Feldmeier depicts how Westerners perceive Buddhism. In particular, the chapter discusses the importance of Buddhism and some of the things that followers observe closely. Buddha introduced religion to eliminate human suffering.
“Buddhism offers ways to systematically develop and purify the mind with little to no appeal to supernatural forces of the need for divine grace” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 191). In addition, “sutta represents the Buddha’s teachings” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 193). Catholics and Buddhists share several beliefs. For example, followers of these religions believe in purification and the prevention of human suffering. However, I think Buddhists emphasize eliminating pain for humans to foster happiness and retain dignity and integrity. 
The three primary things I have learned from the chapter have significantly changed my perception of Buddhism. First, “the cause of suffering is craving” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 193). In reality, people suffer when they have a strong desire for something and can do anything to get it. For example, if someone needs a car, he or she will do everything to get it. If one fails, the person might suffer from stress or depression. Second, “the conventional self is made up of five impersonal aggregates: materiality, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 195). These things affect the way people think and behave. Third, “all reality has three characteristics: impermanence, no-self, and suffering (dukkha)” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 195). The most significant thing I like about Buddhism is that it offers various ways in which people can end their pain. The Brahma Viharas are “meditations that include loving-kindness (metta), compassion (karuna), sympathetic joy (mudita), and equanimity (upekkha)” (Feldmeier, 2013, p. 199). These aspects are similar to what Catholics believe and pursue in their religion.
One confusing thing is how ignorance leads to karma, which gives rise to clinging and craving. Indeed, it is clear that karma causes rebirth and human existence. As such, it is not clear whether karma is significant in human lives or not. Nevertheless, the only clear thing is that karma makes individuals ignore the characteristics of reality.
“An Insider’s Perspective” by Heng Sure reveals Mahayana’s perspective o...